PK-K

Early Explorers (PK - K)

The Early Explorer program is a museum adventure for preschool and kindergarten children. This program offers hands-on learning experiences and interactive inquiry that addresses early childhood developmental milestones and the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten state standards of education in science. This exciting program introduces important skills, concepts, and vocabulary which provide a foundation for future science education.

Theme & Focus

I Spy Animals - Can you spy an animal with stripes? Travel from the past to modern places around the world and observe animal attributes.

Galleries visited may include

International Wildlife, African Savanna, Young Scientist Center/Prehistoric Life & Marine Life

(15 minutes per gallery for an approximate total of 1 hour)

Nevada PK-K Standards

Life Science - Structure & Function

6.PK.1 Identify humans, animals, & plants

6.PK.2 Use the 5 senses to explore & investigate the natural world

6.K.1 Observe and describe animal attributes

Life Science - Internal & External Influences on Organisms

7.PK.5 Identify the basic need for air, water, and food

L.2.B Understand that living things have identifiable characteristics.

Life Science - Organisms & Their Environment

L.2.B.1 Know that animals use their senses to know their world.

L.2.C. Understand that living things live in different places.

L.2.C.2 Know a habitat includes food, water, shelter, and space.

L.2.C.3 Know living things are found almost everywhere in the world.

Life Science - Heredity & Diversity

8.PK.2 Explore and identify a variety of animals and plants.

L.2.D. Understand that there are many kinds of living things on Earth.

L.2.D.1 Know plants and animals can be sorted by observable characteristics and behaviors.

N.2.A. Understand that science is an active process of systematically examining the natural world.

N.2.A.1 Make observations & give descriptions

Scientific Inquiry: Processes & Skills (Communication Skills)

22.PK.2 Share ideas with others.

Galleries that may be visited for Early Explorers...

Prehistoric LifeApproach the Tyrannosaurus rex at your own risk! Triceratops, Ankylosaur and a ferocious raptor give a further glimpse into the past. Learn how fossils are created. Explore theories on the first animals to inhabit land, different dinosaur characteristics and extinction. See ancient marine life and other animals including the ichthyosaur, a gigantic marine reptile that swam in the waters of Nevada during the time of the dinosaurs.

International WildlifeFeel a real bear's fur! Get an up close look at the amazing variety of physical adaptations mammals use for survival around the world. Antelope, big cats, wild dogs, deer and sheep are just some of the animals you'll see.

African SavannaHear the roar of a lion! Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Serengeti, featuring a peaceful watering hole and the animals that survive in this harsh environment. A wart hog, hyenas, a cheetah and a rhino are just some of the animals you'll find.

Marine LifeGet splashed by our live sharks and stingrays that occupy a 3,000-gallon tank! Stand in the jaws of a megalodon shark. See colorful and fascinating creatures from the deep with unique adaptations such as blind cave fish and a frog fish. Find these and many other animals making the ocean their home.

Young Scientist CenterDig for fossils! Early Explorers search the depths of the ocean in our yellow submarine. Use a magnifying glass to take a closer look at a sea star and some of our favorite fast foods.

Traveling ExhibitsEvery year the Museum hosts a traveling exhibit usually June through September. Traveling exhibits usually take the place of the International Wildlife Gallery. Don't miss your chance. Contact the Education Department to find out the current schedule of new and exciting exhibits visiting the Museum.